Kenny Jacket explains why Portsmouth miss Andy Cannon - and when he'll be back

And the Blues boss is hoping the midfielder can finally return to action for tomorrow night’s encounter with MK Dons.

Cannon has been absent from the last five matches with the glute injury which is impacting upon the top of his hamstring.

He had been pencilled in for a potential return last week, although was subsequently unable to feature against Exeter and then Saturday’s trip to Fleetwood.

The tireless midfielder has emerged as a fans’ favourite this season – and also convinced Kenny Jackett he is suitable for the number 10 role.

Now Pompey are banking on his comeback arriving in time for the visit of struggling MK Dons.

Jackett said: ‘We sometimes miss a bit of creation in terms of our midfield players.

‘We miss a player that runs with the ball – and that’s what Andy gives us.

‘He didn’t quite make it this week, we haven’t taken any chances and he didn’t play last Tuesday or Saturday.

‘We are hopeful of MK Dons, although I did feel that was the case for Fleetwood, but he didn’t quite made it.

‘Andy trained on Thursday and was okay, but without really being confident that he was 100 per cent.

‘He also trained on Friday back at Portsmouth and on Saturday morning, so we are hopeful he will be okay.’

Cannon has not featured since the 2-0 victory over Sunderland on February 1.

On that occasion he was openly frustrated to have been substituted in stoppage time, although it turned out he had collected an injury.

Jackett will assess the midfielder today to decide whether he is ready to be called upon.

Pompey’s boss added: ‘We are looking at training today and will see if he is confident and able to put himself up for the game.’